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HGTV Couple Alleges Rover Sitter Lied as Dog Was Rushed to Cremation After Reported Attack

Rover says it removed the sitter and is ready to aid investigators.

Overview

  • Eilyn and Ray Jimenez say their 12-year-old Shih Tzu, Aria, died in late August while in a sitter’s care during their vacation, and they were told she had passed peacefully and had already been cremated.
  • Cremation records indicate a man identified as Daniel Cruz brought Aria to Resting Rainbow on August 29, paid an extra fee for a rush cremation, and staff described severe trauma while relaying his account of an attack by a larger dog.
  • The couple alleges the sitter, identified in reports as Barbara Paz, fabricated details including a text from a supposed veterinarian, and public posts show she was in Las Vegas during the period their dog died.
  • Rover confirms the sitter has been deactivated, with WSVN reporting there is no option to appeal, and the company says it stands ready to assist law enforcement.
  • The owners say they filed reports with Miami Shores Police and Miami-Dade Animal Services; the county has called the matter civil, and the couple declined a $1,000 payment from Rover.